Disabled Tenants' Housing Priority Rights in Wales

Many renters in Wales want to know if having a disability gives them priority for housing, especially in the social or council housing system. Understanding your rights is crucial if you are facing difficulties with your current accommodation or need a home more suitable for your needs.

How Social Housing Allocations Work in Wales

In Wales, local councils and housing associations handle social housing applications and allocations. Their processes must comply with the Housing (Wales) Act 2014, which is the main legislation covering housing allocations for tenants in Wales^[1].

Who Gets Priority for Social Housing?

According to Welsh law, certain groups must be given 'reasonable preference' (priority) when applying for social housing. This includes people:

• Who need to move for medical or welfare reasons, including those with disabilities
• Who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
• Who live in unsanitary or overcrowded housing

This means disabled tenants may be given priority if their current housing does not meet their health or mobility needs, or if their situation makes it difficult to live safely and independently. Each local council sets its own allocation policy within the requirements of the law. You can check your local council’s website for specific details—for example, see the Cardiff Council housing service.

Proving Your Disability and Need for Priority

When you apply, you’ll normally need:

• Evidence of your disability (such as a letter from your GP or consultant)
• Information on how your current housing is unsuitable
• Supporting documents or assessments from social services, if available

The Housing Application Process

To apply for priority social housing in Wales, you should contact your local council’s housing department. Most councils offer an online application and may require the following official forms:

• Housing Register Application Form (no standard national number)

Example: The application form may be called "Housing Application Form" or "Social Housing Register". You can typically find it as a downloadable PDF or online application on your local authority’s website. For example, Swansea Council Apply for Social Housing.

When to use it: Submit this form if you want to join the council’s waiting list for social housing and state if you wish to be considered for medical or disability priority. Provide medical evidence where requested.

What Happens After Applying?

• The council assesses your level of need—including medical/disability circumstances
• You are placed in a priority 'band' or given a set number of points based on their policy
• You may be asked for further evidence or for an occupational therapy assessment
• If successful, you may be offered suitable housing when it becomes available

Your Rights Under Disability Discrimination Law

Under the Equality Act 2010, it is unlawful for housing providers— including social landlords— to discriminate against people with disabilities^[2]. You can request reasonable adjustments to policies if these create barriers for you.

Official Tribunals for Housing Disputes in Wales

If you have a dispute related to priority, discrimination, or eligibility for housing, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales for certain cases. This independent body hears disputes about housing in Wales and can help resolve disagreements between tenants and landlords or councils.

Summary of Key Actions If You Are Disabled and Seeking Housing Priority

• Gather medical and supporting evidence for your application
• Contact your local council for the housing register form and submit your application
• Request a review if you believe your priority was wrongly assessed
• Seek free advice if you think you have experienced discrimination

1. Do disabled tenants automatically get high priority?
   No, but the law says medical or welfare needs – including disability – must be considered. You may get higher priority depending on your situation and your local council’s policy.
2. How do I apply for social housing priority in Wales?
   Contact your local council and complete their Housing Register Application Form, making sure you clearly state your medical needs and provide evidence.
3. What if the council refuses to give me priority?
   You can ask for a review of the decision using the council's official review process, often via a "Request for Review" form. Find details on your local authority website.
4. Is discrimination because of disability in housing illegal?
   Yes. The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled people from unfair treatment by landlords or social housing providers.
5. Where can I challenge a housing decision formally?
   For certain disputes, you can apply to the Residential Property Tribunal Wales.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Find your local council in Wales – for applications and locality policies
• Welsh Government guidance: Housing help if you’re disabled
• Residential Property Tribunal Wales – formal dispute resolution
• Equality Advisory and Support Service – for discrimination advice
• Shelter Cymru: Social housing and priority applications

---

1. Housing (Wales) Act 2014
2. Equality Act 2010

Categories

Tenant Rights & Responsibilities Rent, Deposits & Increases Tenancy Types & Agreements Moving In & Out Procedures Repairs, Maintenance & Housing Standards Eviction Notices & Repossessions Shared Housing, HMOs & Lodgers Discrimination, Harassment & Accessibility Utilities, Bills & Council Tax Affordable Housing, Social Housing & Benefits Dispute Resolution & Housing Tribunals Health, Safety & Fire Regulations Privacy, Landlord Entry & Surveillance Unusual & Special Tenancy Situations Renters’ Insurance & Liability Homelessness Support & Post-Eviction Help Landlord Duties, Licensing & Penalties Housing Law, Legal Updates & Case Studies Mental Health, Disability & Vulnerable Renters’ Rights Rent Repayment Orders & Compensation